Global Plant-Based Beef Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• The German government declared in 2018 that it would invest USD 780,000 in research initiatives to develop plant-based replacements more flesh-like in texture than conventional beef, according to Mercy for Animals Organization.

• In August 2022, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) officially declared that plant-based meat is growing.

The global plant-based beef market can be segmented based on product type, distribution channel, and region. In terms of product type, plant-based beef offerings vary widely, including burgers, sausages, nuggets, meatballs, and ground meat alternatives. Burgers are particularly prominent due to their popularity as a staple in fast-food chains and casual dining, driving substantial market demand. Innovations in product formulation continue to expand the segment with products that closely replicate the taste, texture, and cooking experience of traditional beef burgers.

Distribution channels for plant-based beef products encompass supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and foodservice outlets such as restaurants and cafes. Supermarkets and hypermarkets lead in market share, offering consumers convenient access to a wide range of plant-based beef products alongside traditional meat options. Specialty stores and online retail platforms also play pivotal roles, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking specific dietary preferences and premium quality plant-based alternatives. The foodservice sector is witnessing rapid adoption, with restaurants incorporating plant-based beef items into their menus to cater to the growing demand for vegetarian and flexitarian dining choices.

Regionally, North America dominates the plant-based beef market, driven by strong consumer awareness, a robust vegetarian/vegan movement, and a well-developed food industry infrastructure. Europe follows closely, characterized by stringent regulations favoring sustainable and ethical food practices, thereby boosting the adoption of plant-based beef products. Asia Pacific is emerging as a promising market, supported by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of health and environmental sustainability among consumers. As the market matures, continuous innovation in product development and strategic expansion of distribution networks are expected to sustain the growth momentum of the global plant-based beef market.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market Analysis

The Global Plant-Based Beef Market has been segmented by Source, Product Type, Distribution Channel, and Geography.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market, Segmentation by Source

The Global Plant-Based Beef Market has been segmented by Source into Soy-based Protein, Wheat-based Protein, Pea-based Protein, Canola-based Protein, Fava bean-based Protein, Potato-based Protein, Rice-based Protein, Lentil-based Protein, Flax-based Protein, Chia-based Protein and Corn-based Protein.

The global plant-based beef market is segmented by source into various plant-derived proteins, each offering unique nutritional profiles and culinary applications. Soy-based protein remains a dominant segment due to its high protein content and versatility in mimicking the texture of conventional beef. It serves as a foundational ingredient in many plant-based beef products, including burgers, sausages, and meatballs. Pea-based protein follows closely, known for its allergen-free status and sustainable cultivation practices, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers. Its neutral flavor profile makes it adaptable for a wide range of plant-based beef alternatives.

Wheat-based protein, commonly derived from vital wheat gluten, contributes to the market with its ability to provide a chewy texture similar to meat when processed. This makes it suitable for products like plant-based steaks and meat substitutes. Other emerging sources such as canola, fava bean, potato, rice, lentil, flax, chia, and corn-based proteins are gaining traction for their nutritional benefits and functional properties in enhancing the texture, flavor, and nutritional value of plant-based beef products. These diverse sources allow manufacturers to innovate and cater to varied consumer preferences, including gluten-free and allergen-sensitive diets, thereby driving market growth and expanding the scope of plant-based protein options in the food industry.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market, Segmentation by Product Type

The Global Plant-Based Beef Market has been segmented by Product Type into Burger Patty, Crumbles and Grounds, Sausages, Hot Dogs, Nuggets, Bacon Chips, Deli Slices, Chunks and Tips, Shreds, Cutlets, Strips and Meatballs (meatless).

The global plant-based beef market is segmented by product type into a diverse array of options that replicate traditional beef products while offering vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Burger patties lead the segment, offering consumers a familiar format that mirrors the taste and texture of beef patties, making them popular choices in both retail and foodservice sectors. These patties are often made from a variety of plant-based proteins such as soy, pea, and wheat, combined with seasonings and binders to enhance flavor and mouthfeel.

Crumbles and grounds are another significant segment, providing a versatile ingredient for recipes traditionally using ground beef, such as tacos, chili, and pasta dishes. Sausages and hot dogs offer plant-based alternatives to traditional meat-based sausages, appealing to consumers looking for healthier, cruelty-free options without sacrificing taste or texture. Nuggets, bacon chips, deli slices, chunks and tips, shreds, cutlets, strips, and meatballs (meatless) round out the product offerings, each tailored to mimic specific meat-based counterparts while catering to diverse dietary preferences and culinary needs. These products are increasingly recognized for their nutritional benefits, sustainability, and alignment with growing consumer demand for plant-based protein options across global markets.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Plant-Based Beef Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Retail, Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialty Food Services, Online Retail and HoReCa ( Food Service Sector ).

The distribution channels for the global plant-based beef market are diverse, catering to different consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors. Retail outlets play a crucial role, encompassing a wide range of stores from local markets to larger chains, offering convenience and accessibility to plant-based beef products. Hypermarkets and supermarkets dominate this segment, providing extensive shelf space for a variety of brands and product types. These outlets leverage their broad consumer reach and promotional activities to drive sales, making them pivotal in introducing plant-based beef alternatives to mainstream consumers.

Convenience stores also contribute significantly to the market, particularly in urban areas where consumers seek quick and easy meal solutions. These stores stock ready-to-eat plant-based beef products that cater to on-the-go lifestyles. Specialty food services, including health food stores and dedicated vegan/vegetarian outlets, cater specifically to consumers with dietary preferences aligned with plant-based diets, offering a curated selection of high-quality products. Moreover, the online retail segment has seen rapid growth, providing consumers with the convenience of browsing and purchasing plant-based beef products from the comfort of their homes. The HoReCa (Hotel/Restaurant/Café) sector is also pivotal, as more dining establishments incorporate plant-based beef options into their menus to meet the growing demand for vegetarian and flexitarian dining choices, thereby expanding market access and visibility.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market, Segmentation by Geography

The Global Plant-Based Beef Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Plant-Based Beef Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The global plant-based beef market is geographically segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America holds a significant share of the market, driven by a strong consumer shift towards plant-based diets, health-conscious lifestyles, and environmental sustainability. The region boasts a well-established food industry infrastructure, including extensive retail distribution networks and a growing presence of plant-based food startups and established manufacturers. Key markets within North America, such as the United States and Canada, witness robust demand for plant-based beef products across various product types, including burger patties, crumbles, sausages, and more, supported by widespread availability in supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms.

Europe follows closely, characterized by stringent regulations promoting sustainable food practices and increasing consumer awareness of the health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets. Countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, and Sweden are at the forefront of plant-based innovation and adoption, with a thriving market for plant-based beef alternatives in both retail and foodservice sectors. The Asia Pacific region is experiencing rapid market growth, driven by changing dietary habits, rising disposable incomes, and a burgeoning vegan and vegetarian population in countries like China, Japan, and India. The Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are also emerging markets for plant-based beef products, propelled by urbanization, health consciousness, and a growing awareness of sustainable food choices among consumers in these regions. As global awareness and acceptance of plant-based diets continue to grow, each region presents unique opportunities for market expansion and innovation in the plant-based beef segment.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Plant-Based Beef Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Key players in Global Plant-Based Beef Market include:

• MorningStar Farms
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Symrise
• Roquette Frères S.A.
• Kellogg's
• Tyson Foods, Inc.
• Sotexpro SA
• Crown Soya Protein Group
• Puris Proteins, LLC
• Ingredion Inc.
• Beneo GmbH
• Glanbia plc

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis